2002 Ford Focus ZTS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
The Focus handles well... but either you can get one with a bad motor or one with a bad transmission.. Avoid 2000-2005 models :( Finding out a lot about recalls.. magically I have the same issues as the recalls, but that my car is not included on them.. and finding out a lot about "silent recalls".. recalls that Ford will fix only if you complained about the issue before your warranty went out, then it's a BIG [violative content deleted] from the blue oval. The car handles well in dry conditions.. see a raindrop or snowflake.. go ahead and park it.. the car will be all over the place.. Gas mileage is all over the place.. I can get 30 MPG one day, and the next day on the same route, I can get as little at 18-20 MP
fun to drive, radio when it works...
Back doors wouldn't shut at 100k ($500). Alternator at 100k ($600). Timing belt at 100k ($400). Stock stereo went out ($300). Driver's seat wore out at 100k (still not fixed.. looking at $800). Back window regulators at 105k ($400). Overheating at 110k. Was told it was a thermostat ($150). At 115k, all of my headlights went out; a relay ($250). Goes through tires and brakes like no one's business (sets of tires are $600, since they are 205/50 R16). Ignition switch (key stuck in ignition) at 120k ($350). Ignition coil pack at 128k ($275). At 140k miles, the timing belt yet again (it shredded) ($800). Water pump was leaking at the same time; replaced. At 142k, had to replace both